News Crime and Safety

Margate Agrees to $3.8 million Contract with Firefighters

by David Volz February 24, 2026

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Margate Commission to Consider 3 Firefighters to a Truck

Margate-Coconut Creek Fire Rescue {Aiden Palmer}

Margate firefighters will see a pay increase next year.

During the February 18 meeting, the commission passed a resolution to approve a collective bargaining agreement with the International Association of Firefighters, Local #3080, for the period from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028. The contract is valued at $3.8 million over three years, according to Lisa Huriash, spokesperson for Margate.

Brian Palmer, a leader of the firefighters’ union, thanked the commission and said he was pleased the firefighters would receive a pay increase. He said that while the amount each firefighter earns depends on various factors, the average pay increase will be about 4 percent.

Members of the Margate Fire Department have asked the commission to agree to merge with the Broward Sheriff’s Office. The commission voted against this request, but there is some interest in becoming involved with other cities.

During the meeting, Commissioner Tommy Ruzzano suggested that the city’s public safety entities consider collaborating with nearby cities, such as Coconut Creek and Coral Springs.

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David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.